If you are fortune enough to still have your dog in his senior years, he may start to suffer from age-related hearing loss (ARHL). It is very similar to what human’s experience as they age that causes many to get hearing aids. It is very hard to watch when your dog no longer responds to your voice or is aware of the sounds around him. This can also create a very dangerous situation if your dog doesn’t come when called or wanders off.

If you have a small dog, he/she is probably a gorgeous dog you love with all your heart. A cute little lap dog that keeps you company and has the sweetest kisses. A canine companion that is the center of your world.

However, many small dogs have a reputation for being yappy and demanding. Some are even described as “tiny terrors” and “prima donnas”.

So, tell the truth: is your dog spoiled? Does he have some quirky behaviors you cater to? My friend has a dog who doesn’t like concrete so she carries her across sidewalks.

Is your dog a social dog? Does he/she like to schmooze with other dogs? Not all dogs do. In fact, many dogs are afraid to go to the dog park because of the personalities of the dogs at the park. That’s okay because the dog park is not necessarily the safest place for dogs.

Looking for a great guard dog? Someone to protect your home, family or property and watch for unfamiliar people or animals? Please do not confuse a guard dog with an attack dog, because a guard dog knows not to attack familiar people. He/she is not vicious.

Certain breeds are prone to be better guard dogs than others as a result of their genetics, training and socialization. The purpose of a guard dog is to bark loudly to get their pet parents’ attention and scare away the intruder or predator. According to the American Kennel Club, guard dogs tend to be “loyal, fearless strong and watchful.”

With September being AKC Responsible Dog Owner Month, we thought we would reiterate what being a good dog owner is all about. Most of us had our first pet as a child, when our parents were trying to teach us responsibility. Chances are, you tried to get out of cleaning up after the dog and quickly realized that having a dog was not all about fun and games. You learned that responsibility is so much more than the basics of food and shelter.

When I get a stomach ache, I reach for Saltine crackers and 7up. Maybe even some Pepto Bismol. However, when your senior dog gets an upset tummy, the remedies are not the same.

Why do dogs get stomach aches? Usually because they have eaten something they shouldn’t have. Dogs love to eat dirt, bugs and more… they are virtual garbage cans! Their natural instinct is to forage. You can usually tell when your dog has an upset stomach because he will experience vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue or loss of appetite.

Technology can make all of our lives easier, particularly one that is close at hand – our cell phone. Cell phones are great for taking fun videos and pictures as well as tracking some important information about your dog. Additionally, there are various apps for dog owners that can keep your dog healthier and happier.

Do you own a big dog? Some people like small dogs, while others go for the larger breeds like Great Danes, Mastiffs or Newfoundlands. At HelpEmUp Harness, we work with breeds small enough to fit into a purse or large enough to be a small horse!

Does your dog’s breath knock you out? When he tries to plant sloppy kisses on your face do you cringe from the odor? Most dogs suffer from terrible breath at one time or another, and it is quite common among senior dogs. Some struggle with horrible halitosis throughout their entire lives.

Do dogs get stinkier in the summer because they perspire more in the heat! Does your dog like baths or does he fight you?

Dog baths can be messy, particularly if your dog is bigger. Just like humans, dogs can get stinky too. A swim in the lake or river may be your dog’s idea of fun, but it’s not the best cleaning method for your dog’s fur.

Although a general rule of thumb is to bathe your dog once/month, the real answer depends on your dog’s breed, the environment, level of activity and any skin issues. Remember, the only sweat glands on a dog are between their paws. There are some dog owners who never bathe their dog (not advised), but their dogs do not have an unpleasant odor. If you find dog cleaning to be too difficult, make your life easy and take your dog to a dog groomer – they even have mobile dog groomers that will come to your home!